A proposal to rezone 2.5 hectares of land in Leopold for a new residential development of approximately 35 residential lots has been adopted by the City of Greater Geelong following a recommendation from an independent panel of planning experts.
City of Greater Geelong councillors adopted Amendment C408ggee to rezone the land at 31-49 Melaluka Road in Leopold and recommended the Minister for Planning approve a permit for the subdivision.
The amendment and draft planning permit were exhibited in September and October 2021.
On 17 November 2021, council requested that all 13 public submissions on the planning amendment and permit be considered by an Independent Panel appointed by the Minister for Planning.
Mayor Peter Murrihy said the amendment and permit are consistent with the Leopold Structure Plan, which guides future planning and development of the town.
“We appreciate everyone’s feedback and the time taken by the independent panel to consider all the issues raised,” he said.
“The proposal will deliver new housing on residential land that’s close to jobs, transport corridors and community services.”
The amendment will rezone the land from Low Density Residential Zone to the General Residential Zone Schedule 1.
The developer has agreed to a contribution of $40,000 per net developable hectare to be used by Council for the purpose of providing community facilities within Leopold.
Bellarine Ward Councillor Trent Sullivan said the land is within Leopold’s settlement boundary and residents will be able to work, relax and shop locally.
“These new homes will provide opportunities for families to live close to local services such as sporting clubs, shopping precincts and the Bellarine Rail Trail,” he said.
